German Meatloaf Recipe

German meatloaf, or hackbraten, as it is known in German, has a history that dates back generations. This dish is rooted in rustic cooking traditions, but has evolved over time to become a cherished comfort food.  Hackbraten combines everyday ingredients with a dash of creativity to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.

German meatloaf is a blend of ground meats, often a combination of beef and pork, enriched with fresh breadcrumbs, finely chopped onions, and a medley of traditional seasonings. This mixture is carefully seasoned, shaped into a loaf, and then baked to perfection. The result is a savory dish that boasts a crispy outer layer and a moist, tender interior.

German Meatloaf Recipe

Here’s a simple and authentic recipe for a delicious German meatloaf.

German Meatloaf Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 lb. ground pork
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp. butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, and milk. Mix well.
3. Add the salt, black pepper, nutmeg, thyme, and chopped parsley. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased baking dish.
5. Dot the top of the meatloaf with butter for a golden finish.
6. Bake for about 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through and has a crisp exterior.
7. Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
8. Enjoy!